WFU: Names Barrett a Friend of the Family Farmer

Contact: Danielle Endvick, 715-471-0398 or dendvick@wisconsinfarmersunion.com

APPLETON – Wisconsin Farmers Union recognized Milwaukee Journal-Sentinel reporter Rick Barrett with the Friend of the Family Farmer award Jan. 26 at the 88th annual WFU State Convention in Appleton. First given in 2013, the Friend of the Family Farmer award recognizes individuals who have gone above and beyond in efforts on behalf of family farmers and rural communities.

Barrett has been a business reporter with the Milwaukee Journal Sentinel for more than 18 years, and before that was the agricultural reporter for the Wisconsin State Journal. In recent years he has returned to his rural roots, covering Wisconsin agriculture.

“Rick has been an ally to family farmers,” said WFU Communications Director Danielle Endvick. “His ethical, balanced coverage of agricultural issues has shed a light on the impact of the dairy crisis, trade disputes, growing consolidation in agriculture and more. In a year when journalists have been subjected to immense and unfounded criticism, we are proud to recognize the very important role journalists like Rick play in being guardians of the truth, raising awareness, and providing insight into the issues impacting our family farms.”

Endvick credited Barrett for immersing himself in his journalism, spending time in the field with farmers and sharing their first-hand stories of the struggles and triumphs of farm life.